Does coconut count towards my fruit and veg portions?
Coconut is actually part of a fruit, but nutritionally it’s classified as a nut because of how it’s usually eaten, and also because it contains similar nutrients to nuts. So it doesn’t count towards your fruit and veg portions. Coconut is a good source of protein and some vitamins and minerals, and it’s OK to eat it as part of a healthy balanced diet. However, coconut milk and coconut cream are high in saturated fat, so it’s better to eat foods that contain these in small amounts. Eating a diet that is high in saturated fat can raise blood cholesterol and increase the chances of developing heart disease. We should all try to eat at least five portions of fruit and veg a day, for good health. Fresh, frozen, tinned, dried and juiced fruit and veg all count, but juice counts as a maximum of one portion a day.
